Thanksgiving Aperitif: Persimmon Infused Dolin Blanc Vermouth

Matthew Biancaniello is well known in Los Angeles for his seasonal cocktails. His bar arsenal includes bottles of stinging nettle infused Pisco, tequila infused with seaweed and guavas and mushroom scented bourbon. This Thanksgiving, he suggests a farmers market infusion of Hachiya persimmons and Dolin Blanc vermouth. The preparation is simple - but the ingredients need a week to infuse, so start now!

Matthew Biancaniello is well known in Los Angeles for his seasonal cocktails. His bar arsenal includes bottles of stinging nettle infused Pisco, tequila infused with seaweed and guavas and mushroom scented bourbon (for his Umami Milkshake – a fun take on eggnog). His concoctions resemble plated dishes, which is why he prefers “cocktail chef” to bartender.

This Thanksgiving, he has come to our rescue with a farmers market infusion of Hachiya persimmons and Dolin Blanc vermouth. The preparation is simple – but the ingredients need a week to infuse, so start now! He recommends serving it chilled while you wait for the turkey to roast.

Biancaniello sources his Hachiya persimmons from JJ’s Lone Daughter Ranch. You can find them at the Wednesday Santa Monica Farmers Market and the Sunday Hollywood Farmers Market.

Dolin Blanc Vermouth Infused with Fresh Hachiya Persimmons

4 ripe Hachiya persimmons (preferably from JJ’s Lone Daughter farm)

1 bottle of Dolin Blanc vermouth

Chop up the persimmons and put them in a sealed glass container with the Dolin Blanc vermouth. Let sit for one week in the refrigerator. Strain through a metal strainer with a funnel back into the bottle. Serve chilled.